Gerrard, Hazard & Lampard among five Premier League midfielders shortlisted for World XI

By Alfie Meekings

The top-flight trio are joined on the Fifa/FifPro list by Manchester City duo Yaya Toure and David Silva, along with a host of other stars from different leagues

Five Premier League midfielders have been included in the 15-man shortlist for the World Players' Union, FIFPro, and Fifa World XI 2012.

The list of midfielders comes after the shortlist of five goalkeepers and 20 defenders was revealed earlier this month, with a further list of 15 forwards to be announced on Friday November 29.

Chelsea veteran Frank Lampard was rewarded for his performances during the Blues' Champions League and FA Cup double success earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been included after some impressive performances for club and country, whilst Chelsea's summer-signing Eden Hazard also features having had a fine season with French side Lille.

Yaya Toure and David Silva - both of Premier League champions Manchester City - complete the quintet from the English top-flight.

They will be competing with the likes of Barcelona's Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, Andrea Pirlo of Juventus and Xabi Alonso of Real Madrid for a place in the final XI to be announced on January 9 2013.